If you have traveled through India, you may have noticed a small, colorful symbol hanging in shop awnings and doorways, on rearview mirrors of goods trucks, street buses, taxis and cars: a string of bright green chilies and a lime. As mysterious in meaning and origin as the ubiquitous Horn OK Please seen painted on carrier trucks all over India.
Known as Nimbu Mirchi, this talisman is a familiar sight across the country. In Hindi, nimbu means lime and mirchi means chili. Fresh green limes and green chilies, and the occasional red chili, are strung together and hung as a symbol of protection, positivity, and the hope of inviting good fortune.
The tradition is closely associated with nazar, or the evil eye. This is the belief that envy or negative attention can bring misfortune. Nimbu Mirchi is traditionally hung to ward off nazar and protect the people or place behind it.
For many shopkeepers and drivers, it is a simple ritual associated with protection, prosperity, and good fortune.
As for why limes and chilies?
The origins aren’t entirely clear. A traditional story connects Nimbu Mirchi with Alakshmi. In Hindu tradition, Alakshmi is associated with misfortune and is considered the opposite of Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and good fortune.
According to folk belief, Alakshmi has a taste for sour and spicy foods. The lime and chilies are left outside to appease her. The hope is that she will remain outside at the threshold rather than enter the space.
Other beliefs center more broadly on nazar, or the evil eye. The lime and chilies are thought to ward off negative energy.
Although the origin story may not be in common memory today, the little string of green chilies and lime is an indelible part of everyday Indian life.
Our long-lasting handmade Nimbu Mirchi hanging is made in India, with bright green fabric chilies and limes recreated by hand.
Hang one under the porch or by a doorway in your home, in your car, or anywhere you would like to bring a little Indian color and tradition into your space.
Handmade in India.